Gratitude in Graduate Education

With the season of gratitude upon us, I find myself reflecting on the many reasons to be thankful for what we do at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK). Although there are countless contributions from UNK that make a difference for students and communities, I will highlight a handful that I find particularly meaningful in graduate education.

It opens the door to a dream career, not just a job.
My own graduate education has impacted me personally and professionally. For me, it was always about being a professor, and I couldn’t have done that without continuing my education. 

It sheds light on different perspectives and cultures.
Graduate education encourages us to learn from each other and expand in cultural awareness, diversity, and inclusion of people and ideas. We learn alongside others, whether on campus or online.

It stretches us to think critically and creatively, not just accept.
These skills have been especially useful for me in rising up within my profession. There will always be a need to explore ideas from all angles and find the most effective solutions when challenges arise.

It provides friendships that may not have happened otherwise.
There are many opportunities to collaborate at the graduate level. Often, collaborations provide better outcomes and can lead to continuing professional endeavors together, such as publications, presentations, or networking.

It teaches us the importance of being a lifelong learner.
I found myself beginning to implement effective new ideas and strategies while still in my graduate studies. It sparked a new passion for always learning and improving. There are always new ways to grow in what we do.

On a final note, I am extremely proud of the high quality of UNK graduate programs, both on campus and online—along with the dedicated faculty and staff who make these programs possible. Extending the opportunities and benefits of graduate education to all students is something for which I am truly grateful.